Hands-Only CPR–There’s an App for That

As a former lifeguard I’ve taken my share of CPR classes.  Those classes usually involved spending an afternoon in a windowless room, kneeling on gym mats, taking turns with a CPR buddy practicing 1-and 2- and- on one of these:

Source: Laerdal

And how about the burn after you had to clean the face with alcohol wipes and then do mouth-to-mouth?

Side note–if you’re interested in learning more about the origin of Resusci Anne, this is an interesting post.  Resusci Anne is often referred to as the most kissed woman in the history!

Slobber Hound

Though living with this slobbery character, I may be in the Top 10.

According to the American Heart Association, When an adult has a sudden cardiac arrest, his or her survival depends greatly on immediately getting CPR from someone nearby. Unfortunately, less than 1/3 of those people who experience a cardiac arrest at home, work or in a public location get that help. (Source)

What would you do in an emergency?  Would you help someone?

Don’t be afraid to help!  Now there’s Hands-Only (TM) CPR App.  The American Heart Association has simplified things a bit and by giving Hands-Only (TM) CPR you can help someone during an emergency.

If you see an adult collapse, the first thing to do is call 911 or give a bystander explicit instructions to call 911 and then report back to you.  I still remember this from emergency training.  We were always told to pick a helper, look them directly in the eye, and give them very clear instructions:  “You, call 911.  Tell the operator that an adult male has collapsed and I am starting chest compressions.”

Now it’s time to get down to business.  You don’t need to give mouth-to-mouth because after calling 911, help should be on the way.  But by giving hard and fast compressions in the center of the chest of the person in need, your actions are helping.

Check out the free App!  I downloaded it and have gone through it a couple of times.  In a real emergency, the beep will help you keep on pace with chest compressions.  More information on Hands-Only (TM) CPR, including a short informational video, is available online.

Source: iTunes

I think this is a great idea and brings more awareness to CPR and educating people to not be afraid to help.   In an emergency, I think I’d go into action- mode and may not worry about an App.  But…it never hurts to have on my iPhone.

Question:  What’s your favorite App?